First Thursday: Maker Showcase at Trailhead

A trailhead, whether at the start of a path leading up a hill or through a wooded area, is the launching point of an adventure. Trailhead (500 S. Eighth St.) in downtown Boise is that, too. It's a place for people looking to move into a new metier.

"Trailhead is a coworking space and startup hub aimed at creating a resource and connecting entrepreneurs in Boise and Idaho," said Trailhead Operations Assistant Matthew Gilkerson.

Along with connecting entrepreneurs with each other, organizers want Trailhead to be a place where tech-savvy makers can connect with the public, which is the goal of the upcoming interactive Maker Showcase on First Thursday, 5-9 p.m., co-sponsored by the Boise State University Innovation Lab, the Boise Public Library and Trailhead.

Nearly 20 presenters will discuss and display a variety of ideas on the concept of Virtual Reality and Biomimicry, with everything from VR glasses, to anthotypes (prints made with plant matter), to DNA origami, to biological 3-D printers.

The showcase isn't simply for makers to show off, though. Gilkerson said the interactive, family friendly event will be an opportunity to meet an innovative group of "DIY-ers and creative tinkerers" and to spark inspiration.

"We want to help in anyway we can to foster this growing and large community [of makers] to thrive in Boise," he said.